The "Rose in Science & Elite" (RISE) initiative, launched by the Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics and Physics (CIOMP), Chinese Academy of Sciences, held its first overseas event at the 26th Congress of the International Commission for Optics (ICO) Congress in South Africa.
The event, a panel discussion, featured six well-known figures from both the academia and industry, including Nobel laureate Donna Strickland, ICO President John Howell, OPTICA President Gerd Leuchs, Prof. Frederique Vanholsbeeck of Auckland University's, Prof. Yin Juan of the University of Science and Technology of China, and Ulrike Fuchs of Asphericon Optical Company.
Fig.1 Poster of RISE Event (Image by WANG)
This discussion attracted more than 200 scholars and students from around the world who were attending the congress held from 21-25 October in Cape Town.
Originally established in 2015 as "Rose in Science" to commemorate the United Nation’s International Year of Light initiative, RISE has evolved from its initial focus on women in science to become a more inclusive platform for all aspiring scientists, committed to providing broader stages and opportunities for all students and young scholars interested in scientific research.
Fig.2 RISE Founder Wang Hui briefing guest about RISE (Image by WANG)
RISE founder Wang Hui from CIOMP and ICO-26 chair Yaseera Ismail co-hosted the panel discussion, and invited the guests to share their thoughts on the latest research developments and future trends in the optoelectronics field. The experts also answered questions about their careers and were invited to give advice to students and young scholars.
The subsequent free discussion session pushed the event to its climax, scientists and students from around the globe took the opportunity to engage in enthusiastic and in-depth exchanges with the guests.
Fig.3 Yaseera Ismail, Chair of ICO-26, co-hosting the event (Image by WANG)
Fig.4 Nobel laureate Donna Strickland answering audience question (Image by WANG)
Fig.5 ICO Chairman John Howell sharing ideas with audience (Image by WANG)
Wang Hui pointed out that borderless communication and cooperation, like the RISE event, can not only promote the collision and fusion of scientific ideas but also provide broader stages and opportunities for all young researchers interested in a science career.
She said, “RISE events can provide the younger generation with rare opportunities for face-to-face exchanges with world-top scientists, inspiring more students to take up scientific research, promoting the development and progress of global science and technology.”
Since its inception, RISE has attracted over 80,000 participants through various online and in-person events. The forum's success in South Africa has prompted calls for similar events in other countries, with participants expressing enthusiasm for more international exchanges.
Fig.6 The event attracted young and mature scientists (Image by WANG)
Dear Students,
I know many of you are working hard to be the best physicist/engineer or scientist you can be. I know you work hard and want to please your advisors and professors. But, for a moment, let me tell you that intrinsically you are of great importance to us all. You can be an inspiration, a guide and colleague who encourages others. If you will treat others with kindness and respect, you will receive kindness and respect. Rejoice in the achievements of others and they will rejoice in your achievements. Be a great scientist, but also be a great person and you will find a sense of satisfaction in your journey.
Your Friend,
John Howell
Thank you so much for the invitation to RISE event! It was such a pleasure being part of the panel and engage with the students.
I wish you all the best for RISE to grow further in future.
Best,
Ulrike Fuchs
Together we will make the RISE event reach the greatest heights. Together we will strive to create a global RISE network and will reach millions of students for the betterment of society! Here is to many more RISE events.
Yaseera Ismail
RISE. ICO 26
The questions were well targeted to postgraduate students and early-career professionals. The personal experiences from the top researchers was lovely to hear.
The panel of esteemed guests was truly inspiring. As a PhD student who is in a very small group, I loved having access to these amazing researchers. Their advice was incredible and got me thinking about my future. I cannot wait to start my career in physics.
Siann Bester
Instructive and enlightening. I’m nearing the end of my studies and find the science landscape (academia and industry) intimidating. The RISE discussion with the expert panelists helped to both clarify what happens after a PhD and motivate me to strive for excellence.
Ada Bear
Fig.7-11 Selected messages from panelists and audience members (Image by WANG)
Fig.12 Nobel laureate Donna Strickland (middle) posing with RISE Founder Wang Hui (left) and ICO26 Chair Yaseera Ismail (right) (Image by WANG)
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